Robin E. Mason's Blog: Robin's Book Shelf, page 90

BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 7 January 2020 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – TOUCHED BY FATE by PRESLAYSA WILLIAMS

BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 7 January 2020 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – TOUCHED BY FATE by PRESLAYSA WILLIAMS
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TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – TOUCHED BY FATE by PRESLAYSA WILLIAMS

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THE BLURB

Analyn Richards likes life the way she likes her wedding planning business—orderly and predictable. All doubts aside, getting engaged to the successful man she’s been dating is the natural next step, right?

But on her wedding day uncertainty makes an unscheduled appearance. She finds herself deciding whether to go along with her wedding as planned or whether to make another choice.

Will this perfectionist find the courage to take a chance on the unpredictable?

 

THE AUTHOR

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Preslaysa Williams is an award-winning author who writes contemporary romance and women’s fiction with an Afro-Filipina twist. Proud of her heritage, she loves sharing her culture with her readers. She is currently earning her second graduate degree, a MFA in Writing Popular Fiction at Seton Hill University. She holds an undergraduate degree in Spanish Language & Literature from Columbia University.

Preslaysa is also a professional actress, a planner nerd, an avid bookworm, and a homeschool mom who often wears mismatched socks. You can visit her online at www.preslaysa.com where you can sign up for her newsletter community.

 

 

 

 

MY REVIEW

As a former perfectionist, this reviewer related all too well to Analyn’s need to control every detail of her wedding. I found it baffling and out of character, though, that just days before the event she was still wrangling details. The intrusion of her grandmothers was weird and off-putting; another thing this reader knows too well, though—overbearing-but-well-meaning family members.

It felt like I was outside the story looking in, rather than being part of the action; it was lacking depth and detail. And I would have liked to meet the groom, Corey, beyond just the mention of his name.

It was clear that Analyn’s perfectionist tendencies and her anxiety about embarking on a second marriage drove her every thought and action. Ms. Williams’ message was loosely embedded in the story—perfectionism and OCD tendencies are cruel taskmasters, and not at all God’s best for us. Ms. Williams illustrated this truth for Analyn and for the reader in her final scene.

 

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

[image error]THREE FEATHERS

 

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

 

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#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Touched by Fate, Preslaysa Williams, JustRead Tours

BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 31 December 2019 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – DESCENDED: SEBASTIAN by DANA PRATOLA

BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 31 December 2019 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – DESCENDED: SEBASTIAN by DANA PRATOLA
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TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – DESCENDED: SEBASTIAN by DANA PRATOLA
 

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THE BLURB

Sebastian is no angel. Men like him only want one thing but Natalie is determined to keep her vow of celibacy. Yes, he’s gorgeous, intelligent and heroic, with unusual gifts, but he’s a constant reminder that she isn’t good enough for him. Can she outrun a club owner who wants her dead when she’s weighed down by the failures of her past?

Sebastian has always viewed women one way—as marvelous distractions. But when Natalie enters his life, he’s forced to see them, and the world, in new light. Teaming with Jett Cestone, they enter the sordid world of sex traffickers to rescue young innocents. But only Natalie can rescue him, and give him the one thing his heart needs.

 

THE AUTHOR

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I’m passionate about Romance. I write about real people with real struggles, temptations, and desires. My characters often have difficult choices to make – and don’t always make the right ones. My stories are not what you expect, and everything you want.

God has blessed me with a wonderful husband and three dynamic children, all of whom are destined to make wide, colorful splashes in this world. We share our New Jersey home with three dogs. I have no hobbies to speak of unless you include writing. I don’t.

Connect with me at: http://www.DanaPratolaRomance.com to join my mailing list and receive news of new releases, giveaways, etc.

 

 

 

 

 

MY REVIEW

To say God works in mysterious ways is a hackneyed and trite cop out. Of course His ways are mysterious, no more so than His means to interact with His creation. Who are we to say that Divine beings don’t walk among us when in fact, He tells us clearly that they do.

This reviewer is particularly fascinated in how angels—or other supernatural beings—walk and talk and interact with us.

Such is the story of Sebastian.

Ms. Pratola delves into the sordid world of sex trafficking with gritty realism and ugly truth. Her characters leap off the pages with their particular issues, the tensions between them practically turning the pages for the reader. Though there was a noticeable number of malapropisms, the writing and the telling was outstanding, the story itself a glimpse into the fight Ms. Pratola’s characters wage against evil. And Sebastian’s personal fight against himself.

 

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

[image error]FOUR FEATHERS

 

 

I purchased this book, and offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my own honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

 

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#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Descended: Sebastian, Dana Pratola

BLOGWORDS – Wednesday 18 December 2019 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-WEDNESDAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE WEDDING DRESS CHRISTMAS by RACHEL HAUCK

BLOGWORDS – Wednesday 18 December 2019 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-WEDNESDAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE WEDDING DRESS CHRISTMAS by RACHEL HAUCK
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TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-WEDNESDAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE WEDDING DRESS CHRISTMAS by RACHEL HAUCK
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ABOUT THE BOOK

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Book:  The Wedding Dress Christmas

Author: Rachel Hauck

Genre: Romance, Christmas

Release Date: October 22, 2019

THE BLURB

December covers quaint Heart’s Bend, Tennessee with a blanket of white and the glitter of Christmas lights.

For JoJo Castle there’s no place like home. It’s her safe place. Her one-time love of adventure ended when life in the big city shattered her hopes and dreams. Now that she’s returned to Hearts Bend, she never wants to leave again.

Buck Mathews, the biggest country singing sensation in decades, has the world on a string – his guitar strings, to be exact. However, when news of his mother’s illness sends him back to Hearts Bend for the holiday season, he remembers how good it can be to live among family and friends.

Working with her cousin Haley in The Wedding Shop, JoJo has no aspirations of love. Leaving home, surrendering her heart again, is just too risky.

When she runs into her friend and high school crush Buck Mathews, she discovers Love might have other plans for her.

Buck’s career is on the verge of a momentous leap. But seeing JoJo awakens feelings he’d buried long ago. Falling in love is easy, but winning her heart will take more than one of his melodic tunes and clever lyrics.

JoJo and Buck want opposite things for their lives, leaving no room for compromise. Can love, especially the kind that touches hearts at Christmastime, overcome her fears andhis quest for greatness?

When a very special gown – the wedding dress – begins to make its presence known, JoJo and Buck’s hearts bend in a way neither ever thought possible.

 

Click here to get your copy.

 

 

THE AUTHOR

[image error]Rachel Hauck is an award winning, New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author.

Her book The Wedding Dress was named Inspirational Novel of the Year by Romantic Times Book Reviews. She is a double RITA finalist, and a Christy and Carol Award Winner.

Her book, Once Upon A Prince, first in the Royal Wedding Series, was filmed for an Original Hallmark movie.

Rachel has been awarded the prestigious Career Achievement Award for her body of original work by Romantic Times Book Reviews.

A member of the Executive Board for American Christian Fiction Writers, she teaches workshops and leads worship at the annual conference. She is a past Mentor of The Year.

At home, she’s a wife, writer, worship leader and works out at the gym semi-enthusiastically.

A graduate of Ohio State University (Go Bucks!) with a degree in Journalism, she’s a former sorority girl and a devoted Ohio State football fan. Her bucket list is to stand on the sidelines with Ryan Day.

She lives in sunny central Florida with her husband and ornery cat.

 

MORE FROM RACHEL

Hello Royal Rockstar Readers!

I’m thrilled to share The Wedding Dress Christmas with you. I’ve heard from so many how much The Wedding Dress has touched them, and as I noodled over new story ideas, my thoughts drifted toward the wedding dress and Christmas. What’s more romantic than a Christmas wedding?

This novella is set in Hearts Bend, Tennessee, the fictional town ofThe Wedding Chapel and The Wedding Shop. Even if you’ve never read one of books inThe Wedding Collection, you’ll enjoy this story, the mystery of the dress, and the women whose lives it changed.

I love weddings. They remind us of the purity and the hope of love, the power of commitment. Something powerful is released when two people pledge to spend their lives together, loving and serving one another in both good and bad times. Every wedding I attend reminds me of the vows I made to my husband and I sign up all over again.

Stories are a powerful reflection of life. Yes, fictional stories are often told with wild hyperbole, but that’s what makes them fun to read.

I also love wedding stories because they remind us of God’s love for us, and that one day there will be the grandest wedding of them all. Isn’t it wonderful that God planned a wedding before He created the earth?

In The Wedding Dress Christmas, JoJo and Buck have their issues, but love proves strong enough to conquer them all.

Thanks for going on this little tour with me and The Wedding Dress Christmas.

Yours,

Rachel

 

MY REVIEW

How sad that we sometimes let a single traumatic event upend our lives so completely. JoJo Castle ran from life in Dallas after such an event. But the memory of what happened to her followed her, strangling her, holding her prisoner. When Buck Mathews pops into town for the holidays, JoJo tries her best to deny her feelings. Even as he declares his own feelings for her.

Sometimes, though, in the void of our own attempts at “playing it safe,” God intervenes. And sometimes, He manifests, speaks, in the most unexpected and unusual ways.

Ms. Hauck’s style is so rich, so deep and textured; she paints a picture that welcomes her readers right into the story.

 

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

[image error]FOUR FEATHERS

 

 

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

 

 

TOUR GIVEAWAY

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To celebrate her tour, Rachel is giving away a print copy of the book and a Visa gift card for $25. Swag!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/f1fe/the-wedding-dress-christmas-celebration-tour-giveaway

BLOG STOPS

The Avid Reader, December 18

Through the Fire Blogs, December 18

Livin’ Lit, December 18

Robin’s Nest, December 18

Reading Is My SuperPower, December 19

By The Book, December 19

Wishful Endings, December 19

All-of-a-kind Mom, December 19

Among the Reads, December 20

Genesis 5020, December 20

Life as Lanhams, December 20

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, December 21

Daysong Reflections, December 21

Christian Chick’s Thoughts, December 21

Bigreadersite, December 21

Simple Harvest Reads, December 22 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Remembrancy, December 22

Britt Reads Fiction, December 22

She Lives to Read, December 23

Empowermoms, December 23

Inside the Wong Mind, December 23

Mia Reads Blog, December 23

Splashes of Joy, December 24

Christian Bookaholic, December 24

Hallie Reads, December 24

Jeanette’s Thoughts, December 25

Where Faith and Books Meet, December 25

Blogging With Carol, December 25

For Him and My Family, December 26

Hebrews 12 Endurance, December 26

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, December 26

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 26

Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses, December 27

My Devotional Thoughts, December 27

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 27

Mamma Loves Books, December 27

Betti Mace, December 28

Batya’s Bits, December 28

The Christian Fiction Girl, December 28

Quiet Quilter, December 29

mypreciousbitsandmusings, December 29

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 29

janicesbookreviews, December 29

A Reader’s Brain, December 30

Inklings and notions, December 30

Texas Book-aholic, December 30

Carla Loves to Read, December 30

Back Porch Reads, December 31

CarpeDiem, December 31

Stephanie’s Life of Determination, December 31

 

 

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-on-Wednesday, #TRD, Book Review, The Wedding Dress Christmas, Rachel Hauck, Celebrate Lit Tour

BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 17 December 2019 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE DATING CHARADE by MELISSA FERGUSON

BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 17 December 2019 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE DATING CHARADE by MELISSA FERGUSON
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TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE DATING CHARADE by MELISSA FERGUSON
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ABOUT THE BOOK

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Book:  The Dating Charade

Author: Melissa Ferguson

Genre: Contemporary Romantic Fiction, Romantic  Comedy

Release Date: December 3, 2019

 

 

THE BLURB

Cassie Everson is an expert at escaping bad first dates. And, after years of meeting, greeting, and running from the men who try to woo her, Cassie is almost ready to retire her hopes for a husband—and children—altogether.

But fate has other plans, and Cassie’s online dating profile catches the eye of firefighter Jett Bentley. In Jett’s memory, Cassie Everson is the unreachable girl-of-legend from their high school days. Nervously, he messages her, setting off a chain of events that forces a reluctant Cassie back into the dating game.

No one is more surprised than Cassie when her first date with Jett is a knockout. But when they both go home and find three children dropped in their laps—each—they independently decide to do the right and mature thing: hide the kids from each other while sorting it all out. What could go wrong?

Melissa Ferguson’s hilarious and warmhearted debut reminds us that love can come in very small packages—and that sometimes our best-laid plans aren’t nearly as rewarding and fun as the surprises that come our way.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

THE AUTHOR

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Melissa Ferguson lives in Bristol, Tennessee, where she is an adjunct professor at King University and pens books that make her laugh and grow. She used to have hobbies like running and backpacking the Appalachian Trail outside her door. Now she and her husband are outnumbered, and her hobbies include diaper changes, chasing toddlers in parking lots, and admiring the Appalachian Trail out her minivan window while singing “Winnie the Pooh.” She survives by Jesus, rom coms, and roughly two espresso shots a day. The Dating Charade is her first novel.

 

 

 

 

 

READ AN EXCERPT

Read an excerpt of The Dating Charade here.

 

MY REVIEW

I appreciate a story that tackles real and serious and heavy issues in life, and Ms. Ferguson does it so well.

On the surface the romance was almost too cute, the dialogue, banal banter—ban-ban—was fun and entertaining. But then fate threw both Cassie and Jett a spiral curve ball and the easy romance was suddenly tangled and tricky.

Ms. Ferguson does not gloss over or make light of the messy issues that landed the children with Cassie and Jett. The juxtaposition between their responses added a depth to the story—Cassie embracing the task with open heart and arms, Jett trying to figure how to get out of it.

The balance of gritty reality and sweet romance, with a generous dose of humor, makes this a superb read. Ms. Ferguson writes with a natural and easy style, and her debut novel is a definite winner!

 

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

[image error]ALL | THE | FEATHERS!

 

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

 

 

BLOG STOPS

A Baker’s Perspective, December 16

Genesis 5020, December 16

Kat’s Corner Books, December 17

Robin’s Nest, December 17

EmpowerMoms, December 17

Reflections From My Bookshelves, December 18

All-of-a-kind Mom, December 18

For Him and my Family, December 18

Carla Loves to Read, December 19

CarpeDiem, December 19

Cultivating Us, December 19

Quiet Quilter, December 20

Through the Fire Blogs, December 20

Christian Chick’s Thoughts, December 21

The Christian Fiction Girl, December 21

SusanLovesBooks, December 21

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 22

Texas Book-aholic, December 22

A Reader’s Brain, December 23

janicesbookreviews, December 23

Just Your Average reviews, December 23

Emily Yager, December 24

Vicky Sluiter, December 24

Hallie Reads, December 25

Remembrancy, December 25

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 26

Just the Write Escape, December 26

Simple Harvest Reads, December 26 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 27

Mypreciousbitsandmusings, December 27

Pause for Tales , December 27

As He Leads is Joy, December 28

A Rup Life, December 28

Batya’s Bits, December 29

With a Joyful Noise, December 29

Inklings and notions, December 29

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, The Dating Charade, Melissa Ferguson, Celebrate Lit Tours

BLOGWORDS – Saturday 14 December 2019 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-SATURDAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE GATHERING DARK by BRETT ARMSTRONG

BLOGWORDS – Saturday 14 December 2019 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-SATURDAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE GATHERING DARK by BRETT ARMSTRONG
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TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-SATURDAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE GATHERING DARK by BRETT ARMSTRONG
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THE BLURB

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Jason is an expert at running from his past. But when it catches up, he finds himself hiding in a peculiar inn listening to a tale from centuries past.

The story is Anargen’s, a teen who is pulled from all he loves to follow his oaths of loyalty to the fabled King of the Realms. Together with his mentor, Cinaed, he rides north on a special quest to mediate peace talks between ancient foes—the men of Ecthelowall and the dwarfs of Ordumair. Nothing goes as planned. Many on both sides of the dispute despise Anargen’s Order. Worse, an arcane evil has returned to the North. This “Grey Scourge” seeks to ruin the peace talks and ensure a lost treasure held by the dwarfs is never found by those for whom it is meant.

As Anargen’s story unfolds, Jason begins to wonder whether it is truly just a fable. He soon finds himself drawn into the conflict Anargen faced. A battle which has shaped and can destroy his world.

 

THE AUTHOR

From an early age, Brett Armstrong had a love for literature and history. At age nine, he combined the two for his first time in a short story set in the last days of the Aztec Empire. After that, writing’s role in his life waxed and waned periodically, always a dream on the horizon, till he reached college. At West Virginia University, he entered the Computer Engineering program and spent two years pursuing that degree before an opportunity to take a creative writing class, for fun, came along. It was so enjoyable, he took another and in that course he discovered two things. The first was the plot for a short story called Destitutio Quod Remissio, which the others students really seemed to love. The second, he realized he absolutely loved writing. For him, it was like the proverbial light bulb coming on. In the years since, describing that epiphany has been difficult for him, but he found the words of 1924 Olympian Eric Liddell are the most eloquent expression for it: “God made me fast. And when I run, I feel His pleasure.” God gave Brett a passion for writing, and so feels His pleasure when writing.

After a few years passed, Brett got his Computer Engineering degree, but also completed a minor in each of his real passions: history and creative writing. In 2013, he began graduate school to earn an MA in Creative Writing. During that time he completed the novelization of Destitutio Quod Remissio and entered the 2013-2014 CrossBooks Writing Contest, which won the contest’s grand prize. As of March 2015, Brett completed his MA and is presently employed in the West Virginia Division of Infectious Disease Epidemiology as a programmer analyst.

Brett lives in Saint Albans, West Virginia, with his beautiful wife, Shelly. In the summer the pair gardens together, and each day Brett continues writing his next novel.

 

MY REVIEW

I love when Biblical Truths are wrapped in a well-told story! Even more so when it’s written for teens and adolescents.

The characters were well represented, authentic in their struggles with their journey and in their squabbles with each other. The 14th century setting was rugged and crude. At first the narrative at the beginning threw me, but as the story developed and the narrator appeared in “interludes,” it made more sense. The innkeeper was a mysterious character, and the twist at the end was a surprise!

It did seem that this entire story was a journey that never arrived at a destination. But sometimes the journey IS the destination. What the boys learned as they traveled, the profound allegory to Biblical Truth, makes this story a great read for its audience.

 

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

[image error]FOUR FEATHERS

 

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

 

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-on-Saturday, #TRD, Book Review, The Gathering Dark, Brett Armstrong, Quest of Fire Book 1

BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 10 December 2019 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE CAMERA NEVER LIES by DAVID RAWLINGS

BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 10 December 2019 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE CAMERA NEVER LIES by DAVID RAWLINGS
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TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE CAMERA NEVER LIES by DAVID RAWLINGS

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ABOUT THE BOOK

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Book:  The Camera Never Lies

Author: David Rawlings

Genre: General fiction/allegory/magical realism

Release Date: December 3, 2019

 

 

THE BLURB

David Rawlings, author of The Baggage Handler, returns with another probing story: what would you do if your secrets were revealed to those around you?

Daniel Whiteley is a successful couples counselor who regularly puts families back together, helping them face up to the things in life they hide. But his own marriage is falling apart.

His wife, Kelly, knows Daniel is hiding something from her, but she doesn’t dare probe for fear her own secrets will be revealed.

When his grandfather dies, Daniel inherits an old SLR camera from a time when cameras pointed away from the person taking the photograph. On the camera is an inscription: “Use this camera wisely and remember, regardless of the picture you think you took, the camera never lies.”

When Daniel first uses his new camera he finds someone has already filled the roll of film. Annoyed, he processes the film and finds photos of a secret that he’s been hiding from his wife and daughter.

He has no idea who took them.

Now every time he uses the camera, the photographs reveal another secret about himself the he is desperate to keep-as well as those of his wife, which he is desperate to uncover.

 

Click here to get your copy.

 

THE AUTHOR

[image error]David Rawlings is an Australian author, and a sports-mad father of three who loves humor and a clever turn of phrase. Over a 25-year career he has put words on the page to put food on the table, developing from sports journalism and copywriting to corporate communication. Now in fiction, he entices readers to look deeper into life with stories that combine the everyday with a sense of the speculative, addressing the fundamental questions we all face.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EXCERPT

Read an excerpt of The Camera Never Lies here.

 

MY REVIEW

“You shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free.”  John 8:32

But the truth can’t set you free if you keep it hidden.

How easily white lies, fudged truths, become tangled webs of deceit and confusion. Daniel spins a sticky web that becomes not a safe cocoon but a suffocating mask. He thought he could skirt the consequences of keeping his secrets hidden but the more he scrambles to hide the truth the tighter the web constricts. I wanted to throttle Daniel every time he repeated his [SPOILER] mantra.

Kelly, too, and for very different reasons, faces a battle of integrity. The cost of her compromise is steep and heart wrenching.

Mr. Rawlings’ stories are filled with such passion, the characters so alive, the situations so raw. In his telling, he probes not only the characters on the pages but the reader turning the pages.

 

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

[image error]ALL | THE | FEATHERS!

 

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

 

BLOG STOPS

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, December 5

amandainpa, December 5

Older & Smarter?, December 6

Through the Fire Blogs, December 6

Blogging With Carol, December 6

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, December 7

For Him and My Family, December 7

Christian Bookaholic, December 8

Emily Yager, December 8

Splashes of Joy, December 8

As He Leads is Joy, December 9

Mamma Loves Books, December 9

Vicky Sluiter, December 10

mypreciousbitsandmusings, December 10

Robin’s Nest, December 10

Locks, Hooks and Books, December 11

Bigreadersite, December 11

Genesis 5020, December 12

Remembrancy, December 12

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, December 12

Pause for Tales, December 13

A Reader’s Brain, December 13

For the Love of Literature, December 14

Seasons of Opportunities, December 14

Inklings and notions, December 14

Artistic Nobody, December 15

To Everything There Is A Season, December 15

Texas Book-aholic, December 15

Just the Write Escape, December 16

janicesbookreviews, December 16

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, December 16

Hallie Reads, December 17

My Devotional Thoughts, December 17

Quiet Quilter, December 18

Literary Reflections Book Blog, December 18

Godly Book Reviews, December 18

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, The Camera Never Lies, David Rawlings

BLOGWORDS – Saturday 7 December 2019 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-SATURDAY – BOOK REVIEW – ALL IN GOOD TIME by CAROLYN ASTFALK

BLOGWORDS – Saturday 7 December 2019 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-SATURDAY – BOOK REVIEW – ALL IN GOOD TIME by CAROLYN ASTFALK
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TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-SATURDAY – BOOK REVIEW – ALL IN GOOD TIME by CAROLYN ASTFALK
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THE BLURB

With three rambunctious, young children, Melanie Lombardi can’t see beyond the day-to-day struggle to maintain her home and her sanity since her husband’s sudden death. A second chance at romance isn’t on her radar.

Brian Perella is done with dating, resigned to being the fun uncle and never the dad. Until he meets Melanie and her brood of lively kids on the sidelines of a Little League game.

But when Brian uncovers a co-worker’s secret, it re-ignites a temptation that Melanie can’t know about. It’s his secret to keep until an unexpected diagnosis brings everything to the surface, jeopardizing his future with Melanie and her children, who, when threatened by an unknown stalker, may need him now more than ever.

 

THE AUTHOR

[image error]Carolyn Astfalk lives in Hershey, Pennsylvania where the scent on the morning breeze carries either chocolate or manure depending on wind direction and atmospheric conditions.

A Pittsburgh native, Carolyn carries her Yinzer card with pride, having interned at Pittsburgh’s iconic TV and radio stations KDKA and WDVE. She is a graduate of Duquesne University, where she majored in Latin and Broadcast Journalism.

A cradle Catholic, Carolyn was raised mainly at church basement rummage sales and other parish-sponsored events. She worked her way up to “pup girl” at weekly Bingo and even served as a parish organist for several years. Having reached the apex of parish ministry, she moved to the state capital to advance her churchy career.

Carolyn served as communications director and registered lobbyist for the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference for a decade, advocating for religious liberty; prolife, pro-family issues, Catholic education, and healthcare, among others.

Since then, she has been a stay-at-home mom to her four children. Most days she can be found wiping up spills, folding laundry, and tapping furiously on her laptop.

Carolyn is a member of the Catholic Writers Guild, Pennwriters, the Pennsylvania Public Relations Society, and 10 Minute Novelists. She blogs at My Scribbler’s Heart.

Blog, extras, social media and more at http://www.carolynastfalk.com

 

MY REVIEW

This story grabbed my attention on the first page—then seemed to stall for much of the first half of the book. Ms. Astfalk dropped several telling and well-placed hints, though, of intrigue to come or I might have relegated the story to slow motion and lackluster.

But, OH! then it took off, and my how it did! Like a rocket!

Brian Perella had sworn off dating and then basically dared God to bring him a wife. The last thing Melanie Lombardi was looking for was a new husband. But once they realized their shared interest and began to spend time together, the attraction grew.

But Ms. Astfalk reignites past secrets—both Brian and Melanie—and puts Brian through the wringer with a harsh diagnosis. Their reactions were ugly and so real it was hard to read; I wanted to throttle both of them! The heart sometimes is our own worst enemy. I applaud Ms. Astfalk braving the topic of Brian’s temptation, something I’ve not seen in fiction before.

The twist at the end was completely unexpected and utterly harrowing! Overall a great read with likeable characters and believable circumstances.

 

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

[image error]FOUR FEATHERS

 

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

 

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-on-Saturday, #TRD, Book Review, All in Good Time, Carolyn Astfalk

BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 3 December 2019 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – ECHOES AMONG THE STONES by JAIME JO WRIGHT

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TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – ECHOES AMONG THE STONES by JAIME JO WRIGHT
 

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THE BLURB

After Aggie Dunkirk’s career is unceremoniously ended by her own mistakes, she finds herself traveling to Wisconsin, where her grandmother, Mumsie, lives alone in her vintage, though very outdated, home. Aggie didn’t plan for how eccentric Mumsie has become, obsessing over an old, unsolved crime scene–even going so far as to re-create it in a dollhouse.

Mystery seems to follow Aggie when she finds work as a secretary helping to restore the flooded historical part of the town’s cemetery. Forced to work with a puzzling yet attractive archaeologist, she exhumes the past’s secrets and unwittingly uncovers a crime that some will go to any length to keep hidden–even if that means silencing Aggie.

In 1946, Imogene Grayson works in a beauty salon but has her sights set on Hollywood. But coming home to discover her younger sister’s body in the attic changes everything. Unfamiliar with the burgeoning world of forensic science and, as a woman, not particularly welcomed into the investigation, Imogene is nonetheless determined to stay involved. As her sister’s case grows cold, Imogene vows to find justice . . . no matter the cost.

 

THE AUTHOR

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Daphne du Maurier and Christy Award-Winning author, Jaime Jo Wright resides in the hills of Wisconsin writing suspenseful, mysteries stained with history’s secrets. Jaime lives in dreamland, exists in reality, and invites you to join her adventures at jaimewrightbooks.com!

 

 

 

 

 

 

MY REVIEW

HOLY SMOKIN’ JOE! Not only is this my favorite genre—historical time-slip—but Ms. Wright creates a miniature doll house for Hazel—a particular passion of mine. And she knows how to spin a gripping story. Add to that the skill to weave two seeming disparate stories into one seamless knitted fabric and this story sizzles!

Characters who felt like friends, scenes that not only invited me in but made me feel like I was in the midst of the action, a compelling plot with double and triple twists that kept me turning page after page.

I’ve never been so physically alone as Aggie but I’ve sure felt it, and I longed for her and Mumsie to find their common ground. I can’t imagine the horror Imogene faced but I admired her strength and dedication to find answers.

Ms. Wright casts her net of suspicion wide, dropping clues of confusion in the twisty trail to the end. Ms. Wright crafts a story, filled with tragedy and suspense and early forensic techniques, that is a treat for her readers.

 

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

[image error]ALL | THE | FEATHERS!

 

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

 

 

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Echoes Among the Stones, Jaime Jo Wright

BLOGWORDS – Monday 2 December 2019 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-MONDAY – BOOK REVIEW – HIS HEART FOR CHRISTMAS by DANA PRATOLA

BLOGWORDS – Monday 2 December 2019 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-MONDAY – BOOK REVIEW – HIS HEART FOR CHRISTMAS by DANA PRATOLA
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TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-MONDAY – BOOK REVIEW – HIS HEART FOR CHRISTMAS by DANA PRATOLA
                                                                             

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THE BLURB

NEVER FALL FOR YOUR BEST FRIEND.

It just isn’t done! With good reason – It’s the fastest way to ruin a friendship forever. Decorating her tree alone on Christmas Eve, Stephanie is agonizing over a decision she must make SOON – Flee to the opposite end of the country and start over without Ryan, or stay here and be tormented by her impossible love for him. If only she could know what the future holds and if risking it all would be worth it. Thanks to the extremely precious, extremely unusual “ornament” Nona handed down to her, maybe she can! (*a SHORT story)

 

THE AUTHOR

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I’m passionate about Romance. I write about real people with real struggles, temptations, and desires. My characters often have difficult choices to make – and don’t always make the right ones. My stories are not what you expect, and everything you want.

God has blessed me with a wonderful husband and three dynamic children, all of whom are destined to make wide, colorful splashes in this world. We share our New Jersey home with three dogs. I have no hobbies to speak of unless you include writing. I don’t.

Connect With Me at:

http://www.DanaPratolaRomance.com to join my mailing list and receive news of new releases, giveaways, etc.

 

 

 

 

MY REVIEW

Sometimes the best things come in small—or short—packages. And that’s what this story is, short and profound.

Alone on Christmas Eve, Stephanie is pondering a life changing decision. And trying to convince herself she’s not in love.

We humans are so fickle, denying ourselves the things we want most for myriad reasons—the saddest of which is believing God doesn’t want us to have the desire of our heart. Ms. Pratola touches on the mysteries of God, speaking to Stephanie in the depths of her heart, directing her in her decision.

This story is a fun and quick read, vivid descriptions, jazzy dialogue that rings true to life.

 

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

[image error]ALL | THE | FEATHERS!

 

 

This book was given to me as a gift. I offer my review of my own free will, and the opinions expressed in my review are my own honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

 

 

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-on-Monday, #TRD, Book Review, His Heart for Christmas, Dana Pratola

BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 26 November 2019 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – LOVE IN PICTURES by ALEXIS GORING

BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 26 November 2019 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – LOVE IN PICTURES by ALEXIS GORING
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TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – LOVE IN PICTURES by ALEXIS GORING

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THE BLURB

Wedding photographer Michelle Hadley has a passion for diversity and believes that love comes in all colors. So, she’s working hard to convince editors to feature her clients’ images on the covers of the mainstream bridal and wedding magazines. Despite having a career that focuses on celebrating forever love, Michelle has never actually been in a romantic relationship, and she’s not looking for love, until she meets the one man she cannot forget. Since his fiancée broke his heart, Logan Emerson’s focus has been on his career. He’s won awards for his work as a print journalist and dreams of greater success on television as a broadcast journalist. But his personal struggle presents many challenges that might prevent his dreams from coming true. Michelle doesn’t date often, and since his heartbreak, Logan has shied away from the dating scene. But something about Michelle awakens Logan’s desire to love again.

 

THE AUTHOR

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Alexis A. Goring is a passionate writer with a degree in Print Journalism and an MFA in Creative Writing. She loves the art of storytelling and hopes that her stories will connect readers with the enduring, forever love of Jesus Christ.

 

 

 

 

 

 

MY REVIEW

As a creative person, if not a photographer, I appreciate Michelle’s eye for beauty and her exacting selection process—the mark of a true professional.

Logan hides his heart and guards his secret with steel determination.

Ms. Goring has brought a mélange of elements together in a charming story—attraction that won’t let go, family tension and interference, a past that resurfaces, a promising future that beckons.

I found it hard to keep up with the time frame; several times I was lost or confused by sudden / unannounced time or location changes. The dialogue was also lacking for me; it felt artificial and contrived.

But the way Ms. Goring handled [SPOILER] issue was beautifully and skillfully done. Her resolution was gripping but simple in its application. Well done!

 

ROBIN’S FEATHERS

[image error]THREE FEATHERS

 

 

I purchased this book, and offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my own honest thoughts and reaction to this book.

 

 

#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, Love in Pictures, Alexis Goring, Singing Librarian Book Tours